Baked Apple Fritters (Soft, Cinnamon-Spiced & Glazed)

Introduction

Baked Apple Fritters are a lighter, oven-baked twist on the classic fried bakery favorite. Soft, fluffy, and packed with tender apple pieces and warm cinnamon spice, these fritters deliver all the comforting flavors you love—without the mess or heaviness of deep frying. Finished with a sweet vanilla glaze that melts into every nook and cranny, they’re completely irresistible.

What makes these baked apple fritters so appealing is their balance of texture and flavor. The interior is moist and cake-like, filled with juicy apples, while the outside develops a lightly crisp edge in the oven. Baking instead of frying allows the apple flavor and spices to shine, making these fritters perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or an afternoon treat.

These fritters are especially popular during fall, but apples are available year-round, making this a recipe you can enjoy anytime. They come together with simple pantry ingredients and are easy enough for weekday baking, yet impressive enough to serve guests. Best of all, they taste just as indulgent as traditional apple fritters—without the oil.

If you love cozy, bakery-style treats that feel homemade and comforting, Baked Apple Fritters deserve a spot in your regular baking rotation.

Ingredients
Apple Fritter Batter

2 cups all-purpose flour

½ cup granulated sugar

¼ cup brown sugar, packed

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

¼ teaspoon salt

2 large eggs

½ cup milk

¼ cup melted butter or vegetable oil

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups apples, peeled and finely diced

Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar

2–3 tablespoons milk

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until evenly combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, melted butter (or oil), and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Make the Batter

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Fold in the diced apples gently, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 5: Bake the Fritters

Drop mounds of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping slightly if needed. Bake for 14–16 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.

Variations

Glazed Cinnamon Apple Fritters: Add extra cinnamon to the glaze.

Apple Walnut Fritters: Fold in ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans.

Maple Glaze Version: Replace milk in the glaze with maple syrup.

Apple Pear Fritters: Use half apples and half pears.

Reduced Sugar Option: Cut sugar slightly and rely on sweet apples.

Cooking Notes

Dice apples small for even baking and better texture.

Do not overmix the batter to keep fritters tender.

Use firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji.

For extra color, broil for 1–2 minutes after baking (watch closely).

Serving Suggestions

Serve Baked Apple Fritters warm with a generous drizzle of glaze. They pair perfectly with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. These fritters are ideal for breakfast spreads, brunch tables, fall gatherings, or as a cozy dessert.

Tips

Glaze while fritters are warm so it melts into the surface.

Store leftovers in an airtight container.

Reheat briefly in the oven or air fryer for best texture.

Double the recipe—they disappear fast.

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cooking Time

16 minutes

Total Time

31 minutes

Nutritional Information (Approximate per fritter)

Calories: 260

Protein: 4g

Sodium: 210mg

FAQs

Are baked apple fritters healthier than fried?
Yes, baking uses less fat while keeping great flavor and texture.

Can I freeze baked apple fritters?
Yes, freeze unglazed fritters for up to 2 months.

What apples work best?
Firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape best.

Can I skip the glaze?
Yes, they’re delicious plain or dusted with powdered sugar.

Conclusion

Baked Apple Fritters are a cozy, comforting treat that delivers everything you love about classic apple fritters—soft texture, warm spice, and sweet glaze—without frying. Easy to make, lighter, and packed with real apple flavor, these fritters are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or anytime you’re craving a bakery-style treat at home. Once you try them, they’re sure to become a favorite you bake again and again.

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